Programs

All children are special, but children with epilepsy are Shining Stars! This program connects youth from across MN and ND with other families living with epilepsy and encourages them to “reach for the stars” despite any challenges created by epilepsy.

There is no cost and youth ages 18 and under are welcome. Complete the registration, attach a photo and tell us a little about yourself: your talents, your hobbies, your epilepsy. We’ll help you shine.

Participants receive:

• A star medallion• Program certificate• A dedicated page in our quarterly newsletter.• Special invitations to EFMN events.

• BEST OF ALL – opportunities to connect and meet the other 300 Shining Stars and their families

Here are 4 things that make me (the child) wonderful: (This can be ANYTHING, your hobbies, something about yourself, things that make you special…) *

Upload a current photo (please be sure the photo title includes your child's name) *

You can use my photo in an upcoming newsletter & related EFMN materials! *

Yes

No

Upload a page that tells us more about you (the child), your seizures, things you would want others to know about you and your epilepsy. You can even draw a picture if you'd like! *

I want to connect with other Shining Stars! *

Yes

No

WINNING KID PROGRAM

Shining Stars can become Winning Kids! Our Winning Kid program not only empowers youth, it also creates opportunities for leadership in the epilepsy community and helps spread awareness about seizures.

Katelyn is 15 years old, in 9th grade and lives in Cottage Grove with her parents and younger brother. Katelyn has had a long and challenging journey with epilepsy beginning at the young age of four. She has experienced many different types of seizures over the years and control has come and gone within that time. Katelyn has also gone through three brain surgeries, and has not had a seizure since her surgery last year.

Katelyn has had to overcome academic challenges due to the medication side effects, on going seizures and brain surgeries. However, Katelyn is still maintaining A's and B's in high school! From experiencing teasing and bullying throughout her time at school, she says it has made her a more compassionate and caring person to others around her. Katelyn enjoys horseback riding, traveling, shopping and just being with her friends and family. She is also a member of her school's Air Force Junior ROTC Program and has high hopes of a future in this arena.

Katelyn has been attending Camp Oz for several years, is a Shining Star, attended the Annual Twins Event, Stroll for Epilepsy and many family events over the years and is excited to share this experience with those affected by seizures.